Having completed a Master’s degree in educational research, the opportunity to work in an environment centred on global education systems was extremely appealing. Without a second language, I was initially uncertain as to how I would make progress at UK NARIC. However, since starting as an Evaluation Officer, I have become a specialist in the construction and early years sectors, participated in international research projects, attended conferences and provided key support in the delivery of services for individuals.

With its supportive and vibrant atmosphere, UK NARIC has been the perfect place for me to further my career and this year I’ve taken on additional responsibilities since promotion to a more senior role. Friendly faces, positive attitudes and camaraderie within the teams make UK NARIC a truly great place to work.

As a native Arabic speaker, I always wanted to use my language skills in the workplace. Since starting at UK NARIC a year ago as an Information Officer, I have been able to use them on a daily basis, specialising in education in the Middle East and North Africa. Recently I have been supporting my colleagues in the delivery of important services for refugees, which has made me truly appreciate the work we do and the positive effect it has on people’s lives.

We take part in a range of activities to maintain a fun working environment. For example, I currently manage our team’s ‘birthday fund’! I have come to love and appreciate the working culture and the friendly and vibrant teams across all departments, which overall make working at UK NARIC enjoyable.

I chose to study Italian and Spanish at university as languages are a passion of mine. Since starting at UK NARIC as an Information Officer two and a half years ago, I have used my language skills daily. It is rewarding that I have been able to do this as part of a multicultural team which not only shares my passion for languages and cultures, but also works closely as one unit in which we support and learn from each other, expanding our knowledge as regional specialists. At UK NARIC, I have come to appreciate what it means to be part of a vibrant team which works together with other departments across the company on services, projects and resources which have a positive impact on the lives of others.

My job has given me the opportunity to design and deliver training sessions, represent the company at the annual UK NARIC conference in London and meet applicants from all over the world at events across the country. It has also allowed me to develop professionally and my current role (New Starter Mentor) was created for me as it played to my strengths and interests. It is a privilege to welcome, train and support new colleagues within our team and to see their progress.

Before joining UK NARIC, I’d done a degree in French and Italian and then taught English as a Foreign Language overseas.

I started as an Information Officer, assessing individual qualifications and providing training for our members. It’s a great place to start and you learn a lot very quickly about international education systems. I moved into international projects after two years, working with UK and overseas education providers, government agencies and Ministries of Education and after a few years became Head of International Projects. I’ve just taken on a wider role as Head of International Research, ensuring the quality and relevance of all our research and bespoke projects covering key topics of international qualifications, English language and education system developments.

The main things I like about working at NARIC are:

• the work - there’s chance to make a real impact on how students qualifications are recognised internationally and to support further development of education systems and policy through the research and special projects we do.
• the opportunities - whichever role you’re in or however new you are, there’s usually scope to get involved in different projects and training, and work with other teams. In all of my roles, I’ve had a chance to get involved in some really exciting work. I’ve been pretty lucky when it comes to travel too! A fair few European countries as well as further afield to places like Australia, Barbados, Libya, South Africa, New Zealand, and the UAE.
• the people - it’s a really warm environment, with a definite sense of humour.